Matters of moment, August 2003

Brooklands revamp on verge of green light…

The site of the former Brooklands race circuit and its museum is set to be preserved following nine months of investigation and consultation by the local borough council.

Proposals to create a Heritage and Technology Centre for Mercedes at the site have taken a big step forward following the decision of Elmbridge Borough Council to grant outline planning permission for the project.

The plans of DaimlerChrysler UK will now be routinely referred to the Government Office of the South East. However, it is almost certain that they will be given the final go-ahead and that the remaining sections of the circuit and the museum will be saved.

The centre will utilise the plot’s 150 acres to create a Mercedes-Benz showcase as well as protecting the heritage of the world’s first purpose-built racetrack.

“The planning committee recognised that the project will protect the heritage of the site and the Brooklands Museum,” explained Geoff Brady of DaimlerChrysler UK. “I hope that the Secretary of State will confirm planning permission, and support the very positive decision of the local planning committee”

The purchase of the site from the Universities Superannuation Scheme is subject to clearance for the heritage centre being granted.

The development will also incorporate a flood relief scheme to reduce the threat that the River Wey poses to the museum and local homes.